Valentine’s Day can be a divisive holiday. On one hand, it’s full of joy, excitement, and celebration — but it can also bring up feelings of loneliness, grief, and maybe even shame. If you’re going through a breakup or you’re just feeling bummed about the day, we’ve got tips on how to turn it around. You don’t have to sit out this day just because you’re single. Keep reading to find out how.
Celebrate all forms of love
Valentine’s Day should be a day to celebrate all kinds of love — not just romantic. Think of your Galentines, your sibling who’s basically a built-in best friend, and even your self-love. All these forms of love deserve to be celebrated. It can be as simple as writing a card to someone expressing your gratitude for their presence in your life. Or, write a short letter to yourself on all the ways you’re great at taking care of yourself. It’s one of the quickest and easiest ways to give yourself the warm fuzzies.
Plan a fun activity for the day
Valentine’s Day as a single person can be liberating. You get to choose your own adventure without worrying about what someone else wants to do. So go ahead, book that cooking class you’ve always wanted to take. Get a session in at your favourite workout class. Take a long walk and treat yourself to that latte you love. No matter what you choose, make it a YOU day. Because you deserve to feel the love you’d show to someone else.
Or, give yourself the day off
Don’t feel pressure to give into the day if you’re not feeling up to it. If going about your regular routine and completely ignoring the holiday is what you’d rather do — do it. The goal is to make the day whatever YOU want it to be.
Exercise self-compassion
It’s normal and completely okay to feel down on Valentine’s Day. When those feeling come up, remind yourself of all the reasons you’re loved and worthy of love. Putting pen to paper often helps to engrain these positive thoughts in your mind. When you’re done, put the list up somewhere you’ll see it often.
Speak to someone who understands
Valentine’s Day can be a tough holiday to navigate as a single person. It can bring up complicated and old feelings old from the past that you haven’t felt or dealt with in a long time. If you’re looking for extra support this Valentine’s Day or just someone to rant to, a registered clinical counsellor can help you navigate the holiday and beyond. Wellin5’s team of clinical counsellors are here to offer a compassionate listening ear, and advice you can apply to your everyday life. Get matched today.